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Because Reed Systems pioneered the use of
liquid melting agents in the late 1970's and developed the first
successful truck mounted pre-wetting equipment in the early 1980's, we
have more experience than any other company in North America. During
that period we worked closely with scores of Highway Departments to
develop equipment to meet their needs. We also worked with them to
determine application rates and procedures. We learned what components
withstood the severe conditions presented during Winters in North
America. We learned what materials worked and the ones that did not.
That process took a decade and has
continued to evolve for 15 more years. Over the past several years, we
are seeing others experience the same learning curve. In many instances
equipment was purchased that did not work. In some instances hazardous
conditions were created on the roads. In many instances because of the
problems encountered, programs failed or stagnated. Most times the
equipment failed when it was needed most. The work force lost confidence
in anti-icing and the leaders lost credibility.
That process can be
prevented or rectified.
Reed Systems offers a
consulting service to:
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Evaluate the
needs of the community and determine the level of service required.
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Assist in the
presentation of the program to the political structure that controls
the purse strings and to the public who uses the roads.
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Assist in the
selection and specification of the equipment needed.
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Assist in the
selection of materials that are most economical and yet meet the
climatic demands of the area.
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Evaluate the environmental considerations
of the area.
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Develop application procedures in
response to the demands of the road network.
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Provide initial and recurrent training to
keep your people headed in the same direction.
Today you are being inundated with claims
by equipment manufacturers and material suppliers. Most have only been
in the business for a couple years and do not understand what is
required to initiate and sustain a successful program. Many simply care
only about being the low bidder and can't solve problems when they arise
or give you advice to prevent the problems before they arise.
When we were starting pre-wetting 25
years ago it was difficult to get highway managers to make a full
commitment to the process. Storage tanks, dispensing systems and
application equipment had to be purchased.
An initial investment of $10,000 to
$15,000 was required to do the job right and naturally many hesitated
because we had no long term track record. Reed Systems solved that
problem by offering the following guarantee, "If you purchase our
equipment, and materials and follow the procedures we recommend, if at
any time during the first year the highway supervisor can look me in the
eye and say that better results were not achieved at reduced cost, I
would refund the purchase price for the equipment in full.” With over
200 initial customers we were never asked to honor that guarantee.
We will offer a similar guarantee 25
years later. If you allow us to work with you to develop a comprehensive
winter maintenance program, purchase our equipment and follow the
procedures we recommend, we will guarantee the success of your program.
If at any time while the agreement is in place, higher levels of
service are not provided at reduced cost, we will refund the money in
full for the equipment purchased in the past 12 months and for
the cost of consulting. Is there any other Company out there who
offers the same guarantee?
We developed strong loyalties and respect
for many of our customers who worked with us to pioneer anti-icing and
pre-wetting over the past 25 years. Many of them have recently retired
with 30 - 40 years experience, but are available to work with us as
consultants. They are not theoretical people. They are Public Works
leaders who have been directly responsible for demanding operations. By
combining their skills with our knowledge of equipment, materials and
procedures, we can provide the assistance you need to guarantee the
success of your program. We would work closely with you to understand
your needs, the levels of service required in your area, the
enviromental considerations and prepare a plan to meet the levels of
service you identify. Remember,
the success of your program is guaranteed.
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